The FA Cup fourth round brings an exciting all-Premier League clash as Brighton & Hove Albion take on Chelsea at the Amex Stadium this Saturday night. With both teams eyeing progress in the competition, this showdown promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Brighton Seeking Redemption After Heavy Defeat
Brighton will be desperate to bounce back after a humiliating 7-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, marking their heaviest defeat in 67 years. Manager Fabian Hurzeler has faced significant criticism following the team’s poor run of form, with just two wins in their last 12 Premier League matches. As the Seagulls slip to 10th place in the table, Hurzeler is eager for his side to show character and respond positively against Chelsea.
Brighton's recent record against Chelsea is concerning, with four consecutive defeats against the Blues. However, they have progressed from five of their last six FA Cup fourth-round ties, offering a glimmer of hope for fans eager for a turnaround.
Chelsea Looking to Build Momentum
Chelsea, on the other hand, come into this fixture with renewed confidence following a 2-1 comeback victory over West Ham United. Under the guidance of head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues have shown resilience, collecting 13 points from losing positions this season.
Currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, Chelsea will look to extend their dominance over Brighton, having won seven of their last 11 visits to the Amex. The club is also eyeing their 26th fifth-round FA Cup appearance in 28 seasons, a testament to their consistency in the competition.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Brighton & Hove Albion
Injuries & Absentees:
- Jason Steele (shoulder), Igor Julio (hamstring), Ferdi Kadioglu (toe), James Milner (thigh), Solly March (muscle) are out.
- Mats Wieffer (thigh), Carlos Baleba, Yasin Ayari (muscle), and Pervis Estupinan (unspecified) will undergo late fitness tests.
- New signing Eiran Cashin is available for selection.
Possible Starting XI: Verbruggen; Veltman, Dunk, Cashin, Lamptey; O'Riley, Hinshelwood; Adingra, Pedro, Mitoma; Welbeck
Chelsea
Injuries & Absentees:
- Mykhaylo Mudryk (suspended), Wesley Fofana, Omari Kellyman (hamstring), Romeo Lavia, Benoit Badiashile (thigh) remain unavailable.
- Nicolas Jackson (hamstring) and Marc Guiu (groin) are doubtful.
Possible Starting XI: Jorgensen; Gusto, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Nkunku
Match Prediction
Given Brighton’s recent defensive struggles and Chelsea’s quality in attack, it’s hard to see the Seagulls keeping the Blues at bay. Chelsea have a strong track record against Brighton and should have enough firepower to secure a win.
Predicted Score: Brighton & Hove Albion 1-3 Chelsea
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